I was surprised to find I had actually visited a site included in this nomination. During the Fall of 2007 I had the great pleasure of spending 5 days in Istanbul. Galata Tower, of Genoese design, made it on my itinerary primarily for its fantastic view. Galata district is worth a stroll, the buildings do have a distinctly European feel. The men selling bread on large saucer pans atop their head make a unique detour if you have an empty stomach.

While I can barely say I visited this nomination, I fondly remember my time in Istanbul, and Galata District and Tower were enjoyable and interesting. Perhaps for a true experience of the Genoese historical presence in Turkey, I will have to visit 1-2 fortifications upon my next visit. The picture above is the stunning view of Istanbul from Galata Tower.